Take the plunge with an in-ground pool

Nothing says summer like a dip in the pool, so you've decided to have an in-ground model installed. Here's what to consider before taking the plunge.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MIKE AND KATHIE SMITH

Maltese Pools excavates and installs an in-ground, concrete swimming pool at the home of Mike and Kathie Smith, Maywood

Know Your Options

There are three types of in-ground pools: Vinyl, concrete and fiberglass. The first two are most popular in North Jersey.

Vinyl pools are pre-formed, flexible sheaths that fit into the hole and are attached to reinforced walls of aluminum, steel or a polymer compound. The liners come in a variety of colors and patterns. Over the years, vinyl has remained the most popular choice in our area, according to Bob Maltese, owner of Maltese Pools, Wood-Ridge (maltesepools.com).

A vinyl liner can be pierced by pool tools, pet claws and other sharp objects, so check with your contractor about thicknesses.

Concrete pools can be any shape or size, because the concrete is sprayed or applied from a gun onto steel-reinforced walls. Once it cures, it can be smoothed and painted, finished with a textured surface or tiled.

A fiberglass pool is a factory-molded "bowl" placed by crane into an excavated area. The smooth finish is durable and non-porous. This discourages algae so fewer chemicals are needed for maintenance. However, there are fewer size and shape options, and delivery of an oversized, molded piece may present a problem with interstate transportation regulations.

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Take the plunge with an in-ground pool